Overview & Reviews

Why are Honda vehicles so highly regarded by American drivers? Certainly, their excellent reputation for reliability and quality is a major factor. But it also has to do with the overall driving and owning experience. Read any Honda review and you'll likely notice common themes such as thoughtful design, a friendly nature, better-than-average fuel economy and attention to safety.

Japan-based Honda Motor Company was founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda. The company got its start making motorbikes. Japan had been rendered cash poor and fuel-starved after World War II, and its citizens were hurting for an inexpensive, fuel-efficient mode of transportation. Honda's first motorcycles mated engines with bicycles to create a motorbike that was cheap to make and operate.

Honda's bikes quickly evolved into vehicles far more sophisticated than small engines stuck into bicycle frames. The manufacturer's 1949 D-Type could reach speeds of up to 50 mph, and offered front and rear suspension. The 1950s saw the launch of the successful Juno scooter, built to steal market share from the Vespa knockoffs that were popular in Japan at that time. In the latter part of that decade, Honda introduced the ultra-successful C100 Super Cub. The motorbike was remarkably easy to operate and featured a crossbar-free frame that made it popular with women. It went on to become the first Honda motorbike sold in the U.S. via then-new American Honda Co. in 1959.

By the early 1960s, Honda had built its first automobiles for the Japanese home market and entered Formula One racing. But it wasn't until 1970 that it exported its first car, the diminutive N600, to the U.S. The automaker initially had a hard time sparking interest among American buyers, but that all changed in 1973 with the introduction of the Civic. The car was larger than Honda's previous models even though it was still very petite compared to compact American cars. The Civic's high fuel efficiency (an important selling point given that decade's energy crisis) and affordability made it Honda's first American success story. By 1976, the Civic had been joined by the Accord, which quickly became a favorite with U.S. consumers as well.

By the 1980s, Honda's success and its reputation as a maker of well-built reliable cars and motorcycles continued to grow. It began building Accords in the U.S. in 1982 and by 1989 had earned the distinction of making America's most popular car. This was also the decade in which Honda created the Acura brand as a way to sell more upscale and luxurious vehicles. Throughout this decade and into the 1990s, the Civic and Accord were huge sellers and considered class benchmarks. Also during this time, Honda continued to innovate through such technologies as variable valve timing, aluminum body construction and improved safety features.

Today, Honda's lineup runs the gamut. Included are fuel-sipping hybrids, a spacious minivan, reliable family sedans, practical SUVs and even a pickup. Although the latest Civic and Accord aren't quite the benchmarks they once were for their respective classes, Honda's brand as a whole continues to be one of the most well respected in the industry, with millions of loyal and satisfied customers.

User Reviews:

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  2004 Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By Mdmeyer - October 4 - 3:46 pm

  Dealer claims there is not much mark up in price. Dealer will offer more for trade to off-set price. Also adding fog lights, side steps, and tent package after haggling.

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  Best car weve owned - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By tahitian-tattoo - October 3 - 2:00 am

  After reviewing and comparing every minivan made, we chose the Honda and couldnt have been happier. Power is plentiful, storing the backseat is easy ( if you dont mind removing the headrests). Cup holders seem to be an afterthought. There are plenty, they just dont hold very well. Lots of room, can take six on a week long road trip with all the stuff and have room to spare. Missing AWD and occasional glitch with power doors are only drawbacks that would make us look at another brand next time around. All in all, very solid car and it fit us perfectly.

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  Good ride - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Alec - October 2 - 9:30 am

  Its a great vehicle I used it for work have not had any issues and have 23k miles on it so far added a cold air intake which I think is a must with this 4cyl you get better mpg and much better performece all in all a solid car would rather have bought the manual version tho next Accord will not be a cvt trans

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  Bad Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Uh ohhhh! - October 2 - 7:03 am

  Ive owned Hondas for more than 24 years and this is the first Honda that merits a major complaint. No matter what is done, the car pulls to the right. Come to find out that there is no way to adjust caster and camber in the front or camber in the rear, only toe can be adjusted. After complaining to Honda and talking to two dealerships, there seems to be no way to fix the problem. The rear tires are so far out of alignment that it can be seen just by looking at the rear of the car. Honda says it is OK, even after their own equipment shows the out of spec alignment. I think Honda build quality has taken a serious decline. I would not recommend this car to anyone.

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  The Honda "Fits" - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Mary - October 1 - 8:56 pm

  I just bought the automatic Honda Fit Basic and love it. I wanted a Honda or Toyota hatchback and the new Fit is perfect for me and my wallet. I drive all around town and it is easy to drive, park, carry a variety of cargo and it looks good. I have owned a couple Accords and am very happy with Hondas Fit model. For the money, this car is a super value and needs to be taken seriously!

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  Horrible Wind Noise! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Horrible wind noise - October 1 - 2:03 am

  It seems that I am not the only one with a problem when it comes to interior noise. When I go over 55mph there is horrible wind noise. I have taken my CRV in for service and they have yet to fix it. I will take my CRV back to service and hope that they can fix it soon- the noise is loud and annoying!!

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  2000 HONDA ODYSSEY - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By MICHAEL JAMES - October 1 - 2:00 am

  GREAT LOOKING VAN, STILL THE BEST ON THE ROAD. HAS ADEQUATE POWER AND ACCELERATION. SO MUCH ROOM INSIDE, I CANT BELIEVE PEOPLE ACTUALLY THINK SUVS HAVE MORE ROOM THAN MINIVANS. IVE DRIVEN THIS VAN EVERYWHERE AND OVERALL ITS GREAT.

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  Personal Review - 2001 Honda Accord
  By JeremyLockhart - October 1 - 2:00 am

  This isnt my first Honda. I had a few other accords along the years as well. The car is ok for good fuel economy. I think because there is money spent the resale value/trade in value should be a little higher. I have never had any major problems with any of my accords except the motor mount and the "boots". I however will not be buying another accord again just because they all seem to stay the same. I have a V6 and still drives like the first 4 cylinder I bought back in 93. I do like them but changes need to be made... I have had a 93,95,96,98,2000 and a 2001. So, enough for me.

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  Honda Accord: Think Twice b4 Buying - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Jim Schwabenbauer - October 1 - 2:00 am

  Honda makes a great drivetrain; engine and transmission always seem to work well together and prove to be reliable. However, Ive had continued electrical problems w/ the traction control & ABS. My Accord has 3000 miles on it and been in 5 times to be fixed, Im not convinced they know what the problem is. Honda is unwilling to replace my car with a new one, which is unacceptable. Im now a future Toyota owner.

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  30-Something Van Owner - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By LuvMy05Ody - September 30 - 4:03 pm

  Bought the van, and I love it (never thought I would say that, by the way). This van is very practical and functional as a van should be. I wish the paint quality on the bumper was better, it seems to chip off very easily. But, who cares, its a van, right! It drives exceptionally well, and the kids enjoy being up high and seeing everything. Seat comfort is fine for me, but everyone is different. There is a slight rattling sound near the passenger side slider, but who cares, its a van, right! All in all, it blows away most vans on the market today (I test drove them all), and the extra money spent on this van versus the domestic junk out there is well worth it. Check True Cost to Own data.